Wolvesey Castle

College Street Winchester SO23 9NB

A popular picnic spot for lunching locals, the extensive ruins of Wolvesey Castle have grounds which extend down to the gently flowing River Itchen. The crumbling stones are an atmospheric reminder of Winchester’s medieval might: as the grandiose palace of the powerful Bishops of Winchester, major players in 12th-century English society, this was once one of the most important buildings in the country. From here the power of the church could sway the rulers of the country and reside in the protection of the great castle. Times change, though: the small building next door is the much more modest residence of the current bishop of the city.